1.1.
All users of computer would like to see their computer
perform tasks more quickly. How quickly a computer
processes data depends on the type of data being input
and the various hardware components employed in
translating the data into an output. How well a computer
performs is largely determined by the original build
specification. It can be difficult and expensive to
upgrade if the original motherboard and processor are
designed to achieve a lower level of performance than
the user subsequently would like.

1.2. When choosing a computer the user needs to think
carefully about what they are likely to want the
computer to do. The specification needed to perform
office functions is substantially different from one for
gaming. Graphics work requires more resources than
text processing. It is essential to determine use before
deciding on a specification.
1.3. When the user has
decided how the computer is to be used two ways forward
are available. A branded computer e.g. Acer. Dell etc.
may be purchased or a purpose built can be assembled
based on selected components.

1.4. Whichever option is chosen the core component is
the motherboard. The choice determines what processor
can be used. The motherboard also determines the number
and type of devices that can be connected. In particular
how many USB ports are available and how many internal
hard drives can be connected. The motherboard also fixes
a maximum for how much RAM can be installed.

1.5. For a non-gaming computer the dominant factors
impacting on system performance are the processor, the
RAM and the hard drive or drives